How possible is it for older adults to ‘learn new tricks’?
Recent discoveries in Neuroscience
are shaking up what we used to believe.
How often have you thought, “I‘m too old to learn how to use this software program“ or “mom’s stuck in her ways, she’s not going to change now“?
We have long thought that a fixed, unchangeable brain is inevitable with aging.
But discoveries in Neuroscience have definitively debunked that viewpoint!
We can learn new things at any age.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to form new synapses and reorganize existing ones, and this ability continues as we age.
What’s important to note, is that it takes effort and conscious stimulation to have a flexible mind all through life.
In the same way that muscles atrophy when they’re not exercised, our mental muscles can become rigid and fixed, too.
Researchers have pinpointed three habits to foster neuroplasticity:
1Physical exercise
(even walking every day)
2Paying attention
(being mindful, and present, instead of doing things on autopilot)
3Proactively learning new things!
We can do, try, and learn what we have always wanted to during our senior years.
Whether you choose to age-in-place or move into a retirement community, the best way to help you follow through with your desire to learn is to surround yourself with:
– like-minded people who also want to grow, and
– the types of opportunities that interest you!
United Active Living retirement communities in Calgary are leading the way in this area. In fact, we have been recognized for our unique approach to aging.
Programs are implemented that foster creativity, lifelong learning, friendships, and adventure so that each resident can live an active, fulfilling life. These include:
– arts programs,
– music programs,
– educational programs,
– partnerships within the community,
– and various workshops and events.
We believe that retirement is the perfect time to pick up a new skill, learn a language, and discover new places.
Some residents have even started their own businesses, been featured in reputable organizations, and published for the first time in their later years!
If you’re interested in learning more about United’s unique approach to aging, request a brochure or contact us for more information.
Download the
United Active Living
Brochure
Want to learn more
about United’s residences?
These are meant to be some of the best years of our lives! And we are committed to facilitating that experience for our residents.
United Active Living is a privately-owned older adult retirement living community in Calgary, Alberta. We have three beautiful residences and offer retirement living lifestyles ranging from Independent Living to Assisted Living to Memory Care.
Here’s a cameo of our care options:
Independent Living
Independent living is an ideal option for people who want to maintain an independent lifestyle, with optional care services available should they be needed one day. The focus is on convenience and an active life. Learn more…
Assisted Living
Assisted living is an ideal option for seniors who no longer want to, or are no longer able to, live alone but do not need intensive full-time medical care. We provide our residents with customized personal care plans that accommodate their unique health and wellness needs. Learn more…
Memory Care & Dementia
Living with dementia does not mean you have to stop being who you are. United Minds is an innovative program you won’t find anywhere else designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment where seniors with dementia and other cognition challenges can enjoy a positive life experience. Learn more…
Transforming the experience of aging
I think none of us wants to think of aging as being a period of decline and isolation, and really it shouldn’t be.
United takes a unique perspective, one that is gaining recognition within the industry as a preferred alternative to traditional housing and social programming.
Amy McDonough,
United Active Living
Testimonials
There are so many activities that keep my mind active. I like to learn something new every day and this place really caters to that and keeps me challenged.
You can bring your family and get them to join you for a meal, dinner or whatever you want their company for!
There's a reason I got a couple of my friends to move in, too!
You can go in any time in the day and order either breakfast, brunch, lunch or supper. The service is amazing and the food is excellent!
I love our apartment. It is just perfect for us. When I first walked in here, I remembered saying, this is so me!
